Druidcraft by Philip Carr-Gomm

Finding yourself in the middle of a grove can feel like spiritual home for Druids. Yet, some Druids long for the witchcraft that lingers in Wicca. Others wish to honor the aspects of Wicca that drew them to Paganism to begin with. A combination of Druidry and Wicca might be a wonderful way to manifest the path that works best for you. Druidcraft: The Magic of Wicca & Druidry by Philip Carr-Gomm is an excellent choice for discovering the tools and ideas you’ll need to do just that.

This book is short and sweet. It could easily have been a part of the Pagan Portals series by Moon Books had it been published later. The focus is on teaching the basics to those interested in combining the paths of Wicca and Druidry. To do this each chapter is set up in a similar manner. It begins with a quote and follows with a retelling of a myth or legend. From here you the reader, portrayed as a student in the Forest School of Druidcraft is taken on a walk or lesson with the teacher Elidir. Elidir converses with Brendan, another student, in order that all students might learn from the questions being asked in the colloguoy section. At the end of each chapter is a bit of history pertaining to the origins of Wicca and Druidry.

Generally, the information presented is interesting and useful. It’s easy to stay engaged in each section because the author does a wonderful job of creating a world where the reader feels they belong to. I found the chapters on how Druidcraft approaches the ethics of the Law of Three and general classification of magical arts to be some of the most interesting. There are practical lessons that can begin to form the basis of a real, regular practice for the reader. There are also fantastical ideas and inspiration that will push readers to continue to study, observe, and learn.

Not being a fan of the infamous Ishmael by Daniel Quinn I found the colloquoy part to be tedious at times. Talking to a real person in your regular life can be a magical way to learn. Reading about someone else talking to a teacher is a dull way to relive a boring lecture. I have a feeling that most readers will not be bothered by this, though. Even I was entertained enough with the other sections that the colloquoy took very little away from the overall reading experience.

For those not completely happy with Wicca or Druidry, this book will be a fantastic read that will set you down a path that combines the best of both worlds.

Author

I am passionately curious about how an earth-centered spirituality and lifestyle can bring peace and wisdom to my life. Esoteric Moment is the online, sacred grove where I can share the wisdom found in Druidry, Pagan Books, and Permaculture with others who share this passion. When I'm not online I have a day job at a local land trust and am developing a permaculture farm in the Driftless Region in Wisconsin.